On January 31, 1990
the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
adopted the Occupational
Safety and Health Standards for Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories
Final Rule (29 CFR
1910.1450, hereinafter referred to as the Laboratory Standard and
attached as Appendix A), which regulates exposure to hazardous
chemicals in laboratories.

It is the policy of
Columbia University to comply with all applicable requirements of the
Laboratory Standard by addressing the unique exposure conditions under
which laboratory work is performed, and to protect laboratory workers
from adverse health effects that may result from their work in
laboratories, regardless of what hazardous substances are used. It is
also the policy of the University to fully comply with all other
statutes and regulations that pertain to laboratory operations and
facilities.

Accordingly, Columbia
University has implemented a comprehensive training and safety program
to inform employees not only of potential hazards to which they may be
exposed, but also of whatever specific procedures and equipment are
required to control and minimize exposure to hazardous substances.
Departments and Administrative Units are required to provide this
health and safety training information to their laboratory employees
and to comply with the University's Chemical Hygiene Plan as mandated
by OSHA. The University Office of Environmental Health and Safety
provides university-wide assistance to accomplish this goal.

II. Chemical Hygiene Responsibilities

The Chief
Executive Officer has ultimate
responsibility for chemical hygiene within the institution, and, with
other administrators, provides continuing support for institutional
chemical hygiene.

The University
Laboratory Safety Committee is responsible for ensuring that the
University complies with the Chemical Hygiene Plan and that the Plan
accurately and completely meets institutional needs and regulatory
mandates. The University Labo ratory Safety Committee shall consist of
the following officers or their high level designees: Provost of the
University (Chair of the Committee) Senior Vice President Vice
President for Facilities Management Vice President for Arts and
Sciences General C ounsel Dean, School of Engineering and Applied
Science Director, Office of Environmental Health and Safety University
Medical Officer Chemical Hygiene Officer Chairs of: Physics Chemistry
Biology Chemical Engineering Electrical Engineering Directors of: L
amont-Doherty Geological Observatory Nevis Laboratory

The Committee will
administer and enforce the provisions of the University's Chemical
Hygiene Plan, and will revise or modify it as necessary.

The Environmental
and Occupational Health Office will: Provide data
relative
to regulated substances and their proper use; Provide technical support
to the University Laboratory Safety Committee; Develop and update the
Chemical Hygiene Pla n on behalf of the Committee; Conduct laboratory
surveys, including air monitoring; Maintain all relevant records
(training, air monitoring surveys, departmental notification
procedures, etc.); Help Principal Investigators develop precautions and
provide assistance in complying with the Chemical Hygiene Plan;
Coordinate repair of improperly functioning safety equipment with
Facilities Management; Accompany any regulatory inspector having
jurisdiction over health and safety matters; Enforce, on behalf of a nd
in concert with the Laboratory Safety Committee, the provisions of the
Chemical Hygiene Plan; Maintain the laboratory Certificate of Fitness
holder permits required by the New York City Fire Department and
coordinate all such applications, exam schedul es, and payment of fees.

The Principal
Investigator will: Have overall responsibility for chemical
hygiene in his/her laboratories; Ensure that laboratory employees are
informed of, and follow, the chemical hygiene rules and procedures;
Ensure that appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, lab
coats, goggles, etc.) and health and safety equipment (blast shields,
spill control material, etc.) are available and in use as required;
Ensure that appropriate chemical hygiene training has been provided;
Conduct a visu al survey of laboratories on a periodic basis to ensure
safe working conditions (See Appendix B for a recommended checklist);
Immediately report improperly functioning equipment directly to
EH&S.

The Project
Director, who is designated by the Principal Investigator, will:
Have primary responsibility for chemical hygiene procedures for
specific operations outlined by the Principal Investigator, including
the procurement and use of necessa ry health and safety items;
Immediately report improperly functioning equipment to the Principal
Investigator or EH&S.

The Laboratory
employee will:

Plan and conduct each operation in accordance with
the
general procedures specified herein, as well as whatever additional
specific procedures are required by his/her supervisor;

Maintain good personal chemical hygiene habits;

Immediately report improperly functioning equipment
such as
fume hoods directly to the Principal Investigator, the Project
Director, or EH&S.

All laboratory
facilities at Columbia shall be designed, equipped, and operated in
compliance with the New York City Fire Department talent laboratory
regulation (Directive 1-66: "Regulations for the Storage and Use of
Chemicals, Acids and Gases in College, University, Hospital, Research
and Commercial Laboratories," a copy of which is attached as Appendix
C) and have:

An appropriate general ventilation system with air
intakes
and exhausts located so as to avoid intake of contaminated air;

Properly functioning laboratory fume hoods for
operations
that give off noxious odors, or flammable or poisonous vapors, or
radioactive materials and that:

are vented so that a minimum average face
velocity of
100 feet per minute, with minimum face velocity at any point not less
than 75 feet per minute, is provided;

whenever possible have ducted exhaust fans
located
outside the building on the roof;

in circumstances where perchloric acid is heated
above
ambient temperature must contain washdown provisions to remove trapped
vapors within the hood and duct exhaust system;

Fully charged ABC or carbon dioxide fire
extinguishers
located both at the laboratory exit and within 50 feet of any point in
the laboratory. At least one fire extinguisher shall be provided for
each 2500 square feet of laboratory area;

A fixed overhead or flexible handheld deluge
shower/eyewash
located within 25 feet of the laboratory door where more than 5 gallons
of corrosive acids or flammable liquids are stored or used;

Properly functioning laboratory sinks and drains;

Appropriate spill control material/equipment such as
sodium
bicarbonate for acid spills, boric or citric acid for alkali spills,
activated charcoal for organic solvent spills, or commercial spill
control pads, pillows and booms;

EH&S personnel will
regularly inspect and test eyewashes at least once every 3 months and
safety showers and fume hoods once every year. Fire extinguishers
within and outside the laboratory shall be checked every 6 months by
EH&S. Malfunctioning safety equipment detected by laboratory
personnel
during attempted use or departmental laboratory surveys and discharged
fire extinguishers should be reported immediately to the EH&S of
five
for coordination of prompt repair or replacement.

The quality and quantity
of local exhaust ventilation shall be evaluated on installation and
whenever a change in local ventilation devices is made. Hood face
velocity shall be periodically measured by EH&S (at least yearly)
and
upon request.

IV. Chemical
Hygiene Plan

The University Chemical
Hygiene Plan has been developed to protect employees and students of
Columbia University from exposure to hazardous or potentially hazardous
laboratory chemicals through the implementation of the provisions
outlined below. These provisions, designed to comply with the
requirements of the OSHA Laboratory Standard, include such elements as
general laboratory procedures, engineering controls, chemical
procurement, distribution and storage, environmental monitoring, and
employee information and training. In order to minimize the hazards of
chemical exposures, the following provisions shall be implemented for
all work involving hazardous or potentially hazardous substances.

All laboratory personnel
who handle hazardous chemicals must comply with the following standard
operating procedures. In addition, laboratory Project Directors and
Principal Investigators must develop written safety protocols for any
research projects involving specific hazards of a particular chemical
or class of chemicals. These written safety protocols must be
maintained in the laboratory, used in laboratory training, and made
available upon request to laboratory workers. Please refer to
Appendices N and O regarding standard operating procedures for
"high-hazard" chemicals and physical hazards in the laboratory.

Avoid unnecessary or
routine exposure to chemicals by any route (inhalation, skin/eyes,
ingestion). Be alert to circumstances that can result in inadvertent
exposure. Bending down to clean up a spill of an extremely volatile
liquid, for example, may result in an inhalation exposure. Chemicals
can be absorbed through the skin when clothing, shoes, or lab coats are
contaminated with chemicals.

Do not attempt to
identify chemicals by smell or taste. Never use mouth suction for
pipetting or starting a siphon.

Avoid eating, drinking,
gum chewing, or the application of cosmetics in areas where laboratory
chemicals are present. Wash hands before conducting these activities.
Avoid storage, handling or consumption of food or beverages in chemical
storage areas and environmental rooms. Refrigerators, glassware, or
utensils that are used for laboratory operations must not be used for
any other purposes.

Engineering controls
such as the laboratory fume hood and the design of closed-system
experiments are the primary means of controlling or minimizing
hazardous chemical releases. The following provisions shall apply:

Apparatus or operations
that may discharge toxic chemicals shall be continuously vented or
conducted into local exhaust devices.

Engage only in
operations for which the quality of the available ventilation system is
appropriate. Factors to consider include the toxicity, quantity, and
rate of evaporation of the chemical(s), type of procedure, and
frequency of exposure. For example, use a fume hood for operations that
might result in the release of toxic vapors or dusts. Such operations
include the use of volatile substances, operations that may result in
the generation of aerosols, and any manipulation, handling, or reaction
that may result in the uncontrollable release of the substance. As a
rule of thumb, use a fume hood or other local ventilation device when
working with any appreciably volatile substance with a Permissible
Exposure Limit (PEL) or Threshold Limit Value (TLV) of less than 50 PPM
or when working with any volatile hazardous chemical (those with vapor
pressures above 20 mm Hg). Procedures involving moderately or slightly
toxic chemicals (those with PELs or TLVs greater than 100 PPM and 500
PPM respectively) may have to be conducted in a fume hood depending on
the quantity involved and the rate of evaporation. Permissible Exposure
Limits are exposure standards mandated by the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) and are legally enforceable. Threshold
Limit Values (TLVs) are exposure standards set by the American
Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). (See
glossary, attached as Appendix D.)

Use only those fume
hoods for which an average face velocity of 100 FPM at a sash height of
12 inches has been confirmed and noted on the fume hood by EH&S.
Do not
use fume hoods that are posted as "OUT OF SERVICE-DO NOT USE THIS
HOOD."

Keep sash openings to
the height specified by EH&S to maximize flow and minimize
operator
exposure.

Minimize materials that
are stored in hoods and do not allow materials or apparatus to block
baffles, vents, or air flow. Sources of emissions should be kept at
least 6 inches inside the hoods.

Ensure that fume hoods
that can be individually controlled by an on/off switch are left on
when the hood is used for the storage of toxic substances, or if it is
uncertain whether adequate general laboratory ventilation will be
continuously maintained.

Do not allow the release
of toxic substances in environmental rooms (cold and warm rooms) since
these have recirculated atmospheres that may allow for a dangerous
build-up of air contaminants as well as provide an ignition source for
flammable vapors.

Use glove boxes that
have been smoke-tested, tagged, and approved by EH&S to ensure
that
negative air pressure is maintained.

Do not add to or modify
local exhaust ventilation devices without the prior written approval of
EH&S.

Handle and store
laboratory glassware with care. Do not use damaged glassware. Discard
broken glass in the designated glass waste container. Use extra care
with Dewars flasks and other evacuated glass apparatus. Shield or wrap
them to contain chemicals and fragments should implosion occur. Use
equipment only for its designated purpose.

Avoid practical jokes or
other behavior that might confuse, startle, or distract another worker.

Confine long hair and
loose clothing. Wear shoes at all times in the laboratory. Do not wear
shorts or open-toed shoes in the laboratory.

Keep work areas clean
and uncluttered. Clean up the work area upon completion of an
operation.

Clearly label and
properly store all chemicals and equipment.

Contact lenses are prohibited when chemical vapors are present or when a greater than negligible risk of a splash to the eyes exists. However, contact lenses may only be worn in conjunction with tight-fitting goggles for the lowest risk activities

If possible, do not
conduct hazardous operations or procedures alone. If it is not possible
to have someone working with you, inform Security and ask to be checked
at regular intervals.

Leave laboratory lights
on when an operation is unattended. Place an appropriate sign on the
door, briefly stating the nature of the experiment, contact person, and
phone number. Provide for the containment of the toxic substances in
the event of failure of an engineering control such as a fume hood or
utility service. For example, working stills should be shielded with a
blast shield and the hood sash should be lowered to the minimum working
distance.

Departments shall be
responsible for maintaining an inventory of materials ordered or on
hand, and must produce inventory control records at the request of
regulatory agencies or the Chemical Hygiene Officer.

Before a substance is
used, information on proper handling, storage, and disposal should be
made known to those who will be exposed to it. A Material Safety Data
Sheet (SDS), accompanying the shipment of the material, is one such
source of information(sampleSDS is attached in Appendix E). These
Safety Data Sheets are maintained at the receiving point (such
as Chemstore, Biology Stockroom, etc.). In addition, the EH&S
office
has Safety Data Sheets on file on a computerized data base
that contains approximately 54,000 Safety Data Sheets. In the
event thatSDS information is incomplete, or in cases where the
chemical is generated by the laboratory itself, additional
informational material may be necessary and must be provided before the
operation begins. Many health and safety reference books are available
in the EH&S library as well as in the Departmental libraries for
such
use, and may be consulted at any time by any laboratory worker.

Whenever possible, all
chemical shipments must be received and logged in at designated
departmental locations (such as Chemstore, Biology Stockroom, etc.) in
order to satisfy inventory control requirements. Shipments may not be
received directly by a Principal Investigator, Project Director,
laboratory worker, or student.

Expiration dates must be
clearly marked for materials known to deteriorate or to become unstable
or reactive, including:

Picrics originating at less than 10% hydration

Perchlorates

Peroxides

Peroxidizable materials

Polymerizers that react violently in polymerization
or
become hazardous after polymerization

Stored chemicals must be
examined periodically (at least annually) for deterioration and
container integrity. Dated chemicals must be disposed of before
expiration. Since ethers form explosive peroxides over time, they must
be disposed of either 12 months after date of receipt or 6 months after
being opened, whichever comes first.

When chemicals are
hand-carried, they should be placed in a suitable outside container or
bucket. "Freight-only" elevators
should be used if possible. Dumbwaiters must be used whenever they are
provided.

Hazardous chemicals
(flammable liquids, flammable solids, oxidizers, unstable/reactives)
may be stored only in amounts that comply with the New York City Fire
Department "Laboratory Permit" posted on the entrance of each
laboratory. (See Appendix G for a sample permit.)
Storage and use of
flammable gases within the laboratory units must be in accordance with
the New York City Fire Department laboratory regulation 1-66, which
allows a maximum capacity of 15.4 cubic feet per laboratory.
Flammable
gases may be stored only in laboratory units where there is an on-going
operation requiring their use. Such operations shall allow for storage
of flammable gases sufficient to meet the operating requirements of the
equipment in that laboratory plus an equal reserve.

A FLAMMABLE GAS sign
must be posted at the entrance of the laboratory. Acids must be stored
so that the container does not contact bare metal.
Containers of acid
can be stored on plastic rays. Store nitric acid on plastic away from
other acids, bare metals, and wood. Avoid storage of chemicals on bench
tops, in fume hoods, on the floor, or near exits. Avoid exposing
chemicals to heat or direct sunlight.

The EH&S of five
periodically conducts laboratory air monitoring surveys. Historical
monitoring data have indicated that airborne levels of hazardous
chemicals at Columbia University are well below the Permissible
Exposure Limits mandated by OSHA. Thus, regular monitoring of airborne
concentrations is not usually required.
However, air monitoring is
always conducted upon request by a laboratory employee, Project
Director, Principal Investigator, etc. Additionally, all laboratories
are periodically surveyed (at least annually) by EH&S staff who
are
trained industrial hygienists. When work methods or conditions indicate
a potential for exposure at or above the action level, air monitoring
is conducted. Such work methods or conditions may include:

Use of an open vessel instead of a closed system;

Use of a procedure that involves significant
quantities of
hazardous chemicals over an extended period of time;

Principal Investigators
shall conduct a visual survey of their laboratories on a periodic basis
(at least quarterly) to ensure safe working conditions.
Please see
Appendix B for a LABORATORY CHECKLIST, part of which is excerpted
below.

Safe laboratory working
conditions require:

Clear walkways, with unobstructed exits and no
slipping/tripping hazards such as containers on the floor or outlet
strips or extension cords across walkways;

Unobstructed access to safety equipment such as fire
extinguishers, eyewashes, and safety showers;

Equipment in safe operating condition, including:
electrical wires in good condition and not overloaded to any one
outlet, pumps, mercury bubblers vented to fume hoods, belt guards on
pumps, all equipment electrically grounded, and refrigerators properly
designated and used (foodlchemicals/flammables);

Reasonably neat and clean counter tops and shelves;

Maintenance: Malfunctioning safety equipment detected
by
laboratory personnel during attempted use or visual surveys and used
fire extinguishers should be reported immediately to the EH&S
office to
coordinate prompt repair or replacement. See the "Laboratory Design and
Equipment" section on page 6 for additional maintenance
responsibilities.

Personal protective
equipment (PPE) shall be used as necessary to augment the protection
provided by engineering controls, experiment design, standard operating
procedures, and good work practices. PPE should not be used as the
primary means of controlling hazardous chemical exposures! Selection
of PPE shall take into account a variety of factors including the
identification of the hazards and task-specific conditions, the routes
of exposure (inhalation, skin absorption, eye or skin contact, and /or
ingestion), and the performance of the PPE materials in providing a
barrier to these hazards. PPE selection should be specified by the
Principal Investigator or Project Director in conjunction with the
EH&S
office. Respirator use in the laboratory must be approved by the
EH&S
office and must comply with respiratory protection requirements
specified by OSHA 1910.134. (See Appendix H.)

All persons, including visitors, must wear
appropriate eye
protection where chemicals are stored or handled.

Appropriate gloves must be worn when the potential
for skin
contact with a toxic material exists. Glove selection should be based
on the dermal toxicity of the chemical, the chemical resistance of the
glove material, and the exposure potential (potential for splash,
immersion, etc.). Chemical permeation glove selection charts are
available from specific manufacturers or the EH&S office. Inspect
reusable gloves before each use, wash them with soap and water after
use and replace them as needed.

All other personal protective equipment such as face
shields, lab coats, shoe covers, etc. specified by the Principal
Investigator or Project Director must be used as directed.

PPE such as laboratory coats must be removed
immediately
upon significant contamination.

Certain situations or
exposure conditions may warrant medical consultation or monitoring of
laboratory employees, which will be conducted by physicians at the
Columbia University Health Service at no cost to the affected
employee(s). Medical monitoring of laboratory personnel, including
follow-up exams, shall occur when:

An employee develops signs and symptoms of exposure
to a
hazardous chemical. Such symptoms may include headache, rash, nausea,
coughing, tearing, irritation or redness to the eyes, irritation of the
nose or throat, dizziness, or loss of motor ability or judgment;

An employee has direct skin or eye contact with a
hazardous
chemical;

A chemical emergency release (spill, leak, fire,
explosion)
results in the likelihood of a hazardous exposure;

Air monitoring results reveals an airborne
concentration of
a hazardous substance routinely above the OSHA action level (or in the
absence of an action level, the OSHA PEL) for an OSHA regulated
substance for which there are exposure monitoring and medical
surveillance requirements.

Emergency treatment is
available twenty-four hours a day. Such treatment is coordinated
through the Security Office, and includes the dispatching via radio of
an ambulance staffed by certified Emergency Service Technicians and/or
transportation to a hospital.

DEPARTMENTAL
EMPLOYEE ACCIDENT REPORTS (appendix I) are required in the
event of any job-related injury or illness involving an University
employee. The Depar Mental Accident Report is retained in Personnel
Services, 315 Dodge Hall, and a copy is forwarded to the EH&S
office.
The copy is reviewed to determine whether further industrial hygiene
and safety investigations are warranted, or whether training programs
should be revised or modified.

LABORATORY
HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING RECORDS are maintained in the
EH&S
office. Any laboratory health and safety training conducted by
Department or Administrative Units must be documented and must contain
the following information: date, training outline, length of training,
persons conducting the training, and employee's printed name,
signature, and Social Security number. A copy of the information must
be sent to the EH&S office. For training specifications, see the
"Employee Information and Training" section below.

These and most other
recommended and required signs (including emergency telephone labels)
are available from the EH&Soffice upon request. In addition, a
copy of
the New York City Fire Department laboratory permit for each laboratory
must be prominently posted at the laboratory entrance. The laboratory
permit lists the maximum storage amounts of flammable liquids,
flammable solids, oxidizers, and unstable/reactives permitted in each
laboratory. Warning signs shall be posted at areas or near equipment
here special or unusual hazards exist, including laser hazards, high
voltage hazards, etc.

Location signs shall be
prominently posted to indicate safety showers, eyewash stations, other
safety and first aid equipment, exits, and where food and beverage
consumption and storage are permitted

All chemical containers
must be clearly labeled with the chemical identity and the major hazard
as well as the manufacturer's name and address. Waste containers must
be clearly labeled with the chemical identity, the major hazard and the
name of the generating research group. Squirt bottles must also be
labeled.

New York City Fire
Department (NYCFD) regulations require the presence of a Certificate of
Fitness (C of F.) holder in every laboratory whenever it is in
operation. C of F. holders are responsible for knowing the NYCFD
laboratory regulations (flammable liquid storage limits, chemical
storage requirements, general laboratory safety, etc.) and for
monitoring compliance within their own laboratory. Ultimate
responsibility for safety provisions and liability for each laboratory,
however, shall be under the supervision of the Principal Investigator.

The University
Laboratory Safety Committee has decided that, due to the prolonged and
irregular operating hours of many laboratories, all graduate students
in the laboratory sciences who work in a laboratory unit requiring a
permit for operation from the NYCFD will henceforth be required to pass
the C of F examination before beginning work in an University
laboratory.

The Office of
Environmental and Occupational Health will provide regularly scheduled
training sessions at the beginning of each semester for C of F
applicants and will arrange for on-site administration of the
examination to the extent possible.

Weekly inspections of
the laboratories and corridors will be conducted by the Certificate of
Fitness holder on his/her floors. These inspections must include, but
are not limited to the following:

Means of egress from the
laboratory must not be blocked. An unobstructed path to the exit must
be maintained at all times. Access to emergency equipment, safety
showers, eyewashes, fire extinguisher, first aid kits, etc. must not be
obstructed. Exposed chemical storage must be limited to daily needs
only. Chemicals not required for the procedure(s) in progress are to be
promptly stored per the requirements of FD Directive 1-66 (R).

Total evacuation of the building is required each
and
everv time the alarm sounds!

Exit your laboratory, turning off all equipment in
your
path of travel, and close the laboratory door as you exit.

Exit the building via the staircase. Never use the
elevator. Do not reenter the building for any reason until you are
permitted by Security, the New York City Fire Department, or the
University Fire Marshall.

Upon discovering a
fire:

Evacuate the area, closing all doors in your path of
travel.

Alert all occupants by sounding the building alarm
system
from the manual pull stations located at the exit stairways throughout
the building.

Notify the Security desk (x99) from an adjoining
building
to assure their reception of the alarm signal.

The individual discovering a fire must report as much
information as possible to arriving Security and fire fighting forces
including floor of incident, room number, type of room (laboratory, of
fine, storeroom, etc.), substances and materials involved if known, and
any other pertinent information such as explosives, water-reactives,
etc.

FIRE
EXTINGUISHMENT: Extinguishment should only be attempted on
small fires that can be extinguished with the available portable fire
extinguisher by an individual who has been trained in its use. In
general:

Remove the extinguisher
from its bracket, maintain the means of egress to your back to provide
a means of escape in the event the fire is not extinguished. Remember "PASS" PULL the pin AIM nozzle at the base of the fire SQUEEZE the handle
to discharge the product S HOOT the product at the base of the fire,
moving the nozzle in a sweeping motion from side to side.

DO NOT STOP
THE DISCHARGE OF PRODUCT FROM THE EXTINGUISHER UNTIL YOU HAVE BACKED
AWAY FROM THE FIRE SOURCE.

Upon extinguishment, the University Security
office (x99) and EH&Soffice (x4-8749) must be notified for
inspection
and the proper removal of burned and/or contaminated materials.

FIRE
DRESS: Scheduled fire drills will be conducted three times a
year per the requirements of the laws of New York State, Chapter 392
and New York City Fire Prevention Directive 9-64(R).

Laboratory emergencies
require prompt action to prevent or reduce undesirable effects.
Laboratory employees must be able to immediately take control of the
situation and quickly assess the existing and potential hazards and
carry out the appropriate response actions. Immediate hazards of fire,
explosion, and release of toxic vapors and gases are of prime concern.
The following written emergency response procedures contain minimum
specifications that must be followed by all Columbia laboratory
workers.In addition, written emergency response actions for specific
hazards in the laboratory (such as skin contact with hydrofluoric acid)
must be developed by the Principal Investigator, approved by the
EH&RS
office, and provided to the laboratory workers. These written emergency
response procedures must also specify the proper spill control
equipment or material to be used.

SPILL
CONTROL EQUIPMENT: The Principal Investigator shall make
available appropriate spill control items in each laboratory. Such
items may include commercial spill control products as absorbent pads,
pillows, rolls, booms, etc. and/or other suitable neutralizing or
absorbing items such as sodium bicarbonate for acid spills, boric acid
or citric acid for alkali spills, or activated charcoal for solvent
spills. The Environmental Health and Safety Office is available for
assistance in selecting proper spill control equipment.

SPILL
CONTROL FOR ACIDS, ALKALIES,AND SOLVENTS: As a general
guideline, spills of less than 1 liter of these materials are
considered small. However, spills of particularly hazardous substances,
regardless of the amount spilled, may require immediate EH&RS
notification and assistance. Particularly hazardous substances include
select carcinogens, reproductive toxins and substances with a high
degree of acute toxicity. Whenever a spill occurs, treat the spill as a
potentially

Respirators may be
necessary even in a small spill clean-up, depending on the substance.
Only those employees approved by EH&S to wear respirators can
attempt
spill clean-up requiring respiratory protection.

ii) Use the proper spill
clean-up material. Commercial pads, pillows, booms, rolls, etc. are
available from several manufacturers, but vary in what substances they
control. For example, many commercial absorbents cannot be used with
hydrofluoric acid spill clean-up. In addition, to commercial absorbent
pads, pillows, booms, etc. the following can be used:

Sodium bicarbonate for acid spills

Boric acid or citric acid for alkali spills

Activated charcoal for solvent spills

iii) Confine the spill
to a small area. Do not let it spread. Dispose of all spill-clean up
material in an appropriately marked hazardous waste bag (available from
EH&S) and label the contents. Fill out an incident report form and
contact EH&Sfor follow-up and to arrange correct disposal.

Incident report forms
are carefully analyzed by EH&S with the results distributed to all
who
might benefit. EH&S Safety Bulletins are the most common means of
such
distribution. (See the attached sample, Appendix I).

MERCURY
SPILLS: Regardless of the size of the spill, you must
contact EH&S. EH&S has a mercury vapor analyzer to measure
airborne
concentrations of mercury and a vacuum designed specifically to
clean-up mercury spills. For tiny amounts (< 2 cc) of spilled
mercury, use available mercury spill control kits or mercury spill
amalgam to minimize vaporization while awaiting EH&S. Never use
laboratory sinks or drains to dispose of mercury or
mercury-contaminated waste.

BIOHAZARD
SPILLS: Quickly assess whether there are any injured persons
and attend to any person who may have been contaminated. Remove
contaminated clothing immediately and decontaminate. (EH&S is
available
for assistance in the selection of proper disinfectants.)

Follow the
notification procedures for your laboratory. In case of small spills
(<1L), follow the departmental "chain of notification personnel"
procedures. Report large spills (>1L) to Security (x99) who will
then coordinate spill response with EH&Soffice.

To clean up the spill
and decontaminate the area, wear personal protective equipment
(labcoat, mask, goggles and 2 pairs of gloves) and:

Dispose of all material using a mechanical device
such as
forceps and place in autoclavable BIOHAZARD BAG.

RADlOACTlVE
SPlLLS: (as excerpted from the "Radiation Safety Code of
Columbia University, 4th Edition, 1987", pp. 8-9, which in its entirety
applies to work with these substances):

Minor Spills:

NOTIFY: Notify persons in the area that a spill has
occurred.

PREVENT THE SPREAD: Cover the spill with absorbent
paper.

CLEAN UP: Use disposable gloves and remote handling
tong.
Carefully fold the absorbent paper and pad. Insert into a plastic bag
and dispose of in the radioactive waste container. Also insert into the
plastic bag all other contaminated materials such as contaminated
gloves.

SURVEY: With a low-range thin-window GM survey meter,
check
the area around the spill, hands, and clothing for contamination.

REPORT: Report incident to the Radiation Safety
Officer.

Major Spills:

CLEAR THE AREA: Notify all persons not involved in
the
spill to vacate the room.

PREVENT THE SPREAD: Cover the spill with absorbent
pads,
but do not attempt to clean it up. Confine the movement of all
personnel potentially contaminated to prevent the spread.

SHIELD THE SOURCE: If possible, the spill should be
shielded, but only if it can be done without further contamination or
without significantly increasing your radiation exposure.

CLOSE THE ROOM: Leave the room and lock the door(s)
to
prevent entry.

CALL FOR HELP: Notify the Radiation Safety Officer
immediately.

PERSONNEL DECONTAMINATION: Contaminated clothing
should be
removed and stored for further evaluation by the Radiation Safety of
finer. If the spill is on the skin, flush thoroughly and then wash with
mild soap and lukewarm water.

LEAKING
COMPRESSED CAS CYLINDERS: Occasionally, a cylinder or one of
its component parts develops a leak. Such leaks often occur around the
manifold in areas such as valve threads, safety device, valve stem, and
valve outlet. If a leak is suspected, use a flammable gas leak detector
or soapy water or other suitable solution. If the leak cannot be
remedied by tightening a valve gland or a packing nut, follow the
departmental notification procedures and also notify EHRS and the
supplier. Laboratory employees should never attempt to repair a leak at
the valve threads or safety devices.

Flammable, inert or oxidizing gases: Move the
cylinder to an isolated, well-ventilated area and, if possible, post
warning signs describing the hazard and precautions to be taken.

Corrosive gases: Corrosive gases may increase
the
size of the leak during release and some corrosives are also oxidizers
or flammable. Move the cylinder to an isolated, well-ventilated area
and, if possible, use suitable means to direct the gas into an
appropriate chemical neutralizer. Post warning signs describing the
hazard and precautions to be taken.

Toxic gases: Move the cylinder to an isolated,
well-ventilated area and use suitable means to direct the gas into an
appropriate chemical neutralizer. Post warning signs describing the
hazard and precautions to be taken.

EQUIPMENT
FAILURE:

Malfunctioning laboratory equipment that presents a
health and safety hazard, e.g. mantles that overheat, should be
immediately removed from service and labeled as malfunctioning. The
equipment should be promptly repaired or discarded.

Facilities equipment
failure such as circuit breaker overload, ventilating equipment, or
door closers, should be reported to the Facilities Management Customer
Service at x 4-2275.

Accidents or injuries
that occur in the laboratory and that require medical treatment must be
reported immediately to the Department or Administrative Unit and to
EH&S. Accident records shall be written and retained. For any
injury
which appears to require emergency first aid, call Security (x99) and
request an ambulance.

Accidents and spills:
Whenever there is skin or eye contact with a chemical, promptly flush
the affected skin area with water and remove any contaminated clothing,
and seek medical attention. Any clothing that has been significantly
contaminated should be removed immediately.

When there is acute
inhalation of a hazardous material, escort victim to a source of fresh
air; seek medical attention if necessary.

The aims of the waste
disposal program are to assure that minimal harm to people, other
organisms, and the environment will result from the disposal of waste
laboratory chemicals, as well as to ensure compliance with all
applicable city, state and federal waste disposal regulations.

As a generator of
hazardous waste, the University is legally required to institute a
hazardous waste minimization program to reduce the volume or toxicity
of hazardous waste. All Departments and Administrative Units must
reduce the volume or toxicity of hazardous waste whenever possible.
Waste minimization methods include:

Use purchasing methods
to reduce the quantity and variety of products. Reduce to a minimum the
number of different products used. Implement micro-level or small-scale
operations. Order chemicals in smaller containers, and order only the
amount of material needed for a project. Contact EH&S for a list
of
companies that will ship chemicals in small quantities, such as
milligram amounts, at competitive prices.

Substitute less toxic
materials whenever possible. An example of substitution is the use of
non-toxic, non-flammable scintillation cocktails.

Properly segregate and
consolidate wastes. Never mix a hazardous waste with a nonhazardous
waste as this renders the whole mixture hazardous.

Recycle, reclaim, and
reuse hazardous materials whenever possible.

Improve housekeeping
practices to reduce the production of waste. For example, arrange for
prompt repairs of leaking equipment or spill cleanup.

It is the responsibility
of each department or Principal Investigator to develop and implement
procedures to ensure safe, efficient and legal waste disposal
practices, consistent with the University's hazardous waste program.
Each Department will set up its own specific handling procedures in
coordination with the EH&S office. The following procedures
specify how
waste is to be collected, segregated, stored, and removed:

Deposit chemical waste
in appropriately labeled waste containers. Waste containers must be
clearly labeled with the chemical category (i.e., flammable solvents,
corrosive, etc.), list of contents, and the name and telephone number
of the generating research group.

Never mix incompatible
materials in the same waste container. For example, do not mix acid and
solvent waste. Segregate containers of incompatible materials.

All hazardous waste
disposal must be coordinated through EH&S. To initiate disposal of
hazardous waste, send a completed Chemical Waste Disposal Request Form
(see Appendix K) to the EH&S office. There are regularly scheduled
bulk
solvent and laboratory lab pack pick-ups. Special pick-ups can be
arranged by EH&S as needed.

In addition, substances
that might interfere with the biological activity of waste water
treatment plants, create fire or explosion hazards, or cause structural
damage or impede water flow must not be poured down the drain. If there
is any doubt as to what chemicals may go down the drain or into the
solid refuse stream, contact the EH&S office for assistance.

Fume hoods must not be
used for evaporative disposal of volatile chemicals.

Unlabeled containers of
chemicals and solutions should undergo prompt disposal; if partially
used, they should not be reopened since some substances form unstable
decomposition products.

Before the termination
of a research project, chemicals that have been used or processed
during the project must be properly disposed of or returned to storage.
This procedure should be coordinated through the Departmental Office or
Administrative Unit with EH&S. Responsibility and payment for
proper
disposal of all accumulated hazardous chemicals will subsequently
devolve on the department, school, or unit.

EH&S -approved
disposal
by recycling, consolidation, or chemical decontamination or
deactivation (neutralization, precipitation, etc.) should be used
whenever possible.

Empty, uncapped chemical
containers, free of visible residue and contamination, can be placed in
the hallway to be taken out with the regular trash.

A comprehensive training
program is the single most important aspect of employee protection. The
aim of the institutional training program is to ensure that all
individuals at risk are adequately informed about the operations and
substances in their laboratory, their risks, and what to do if an
accident occurs.

Department and
Administrative Units are required to provide health and safety training
and information to their laboratory employees.

The EH&S office
provides
university-wide assistance to accomplish this goal. Employee training
shall include the methods and observations that may be used to detect
the presence of hazardous chemicals in the work area, including the
control measures Columbia University has instituted; the physical and
health hazards associated with chemicals in the work area; appropriate
protection measures including emergency procedures; and the details of
the Columbia University Chemical Hygiene Plan. Copies of the Chemical
Hygiene Plan have been distributed to every laboratory and Principal
Investigator; additional copies are located in Departmental Offices and
the EH&S Office. All training must follow the training outline in Appendix
L.

In addition, it is the responsibility of the Principal Investigator
to inform his/her laboratory employees of specific hazards related
to the work or research conducted in his/her laboratory, as well
as any associated methods of control for dealing with those specific
hazards.

All employees must be
trained at the time of initial assignment and prior to the use of a new
hazardous chemical or procedure. Refresher training shall be determined
by the Principal Investigator.

All training must be
documented and contain the following information:

i) Date, location,
length of training program
ii) Employee name, signature and Social
Security Number
iii) Training outline Copies of all training
documentation must be sent to the EH&S of fine for evaluation and
record retention.

Certain kinds of
research, because of the materials, equipment, or operations they
require, or because of the disposal materials they generate, or for
other reasons, may present issues of laboratory safety that require
prior approval of the Laboratory Safety Committee.
The Committee itself
shall develop criteria to identify such projects, as well as mechanisms
to insure enforcement of such procedures it shall be devised, not later
than 31 April 1991, which shall thereupon become part of this Policy.

In order to assure
compliance with the mandated policies of the Columbia University
Laboratory Safety Policy, a series of corrective actions will address
policy infractions in order to provide a mechanism to ensure
compliance. Poor safety practices and inadequate counseling and
training can result in personal injury, property damage, legal
liabilities, and lost productivity.

Any practice that
violates any provision of this Policy must be immediately reported to
the Chemical Hygiene of finer, who may refer it to the Chair of the
Laboratory Safety Committee, for appropriate action which may lead to
cessation of laboratory op erations, revocation of laboratory
privileges, and/or termination of employment.

5. Gases
Compressed gas cylinders
(including empties) must be secured in upright position with chains,
straps, or special stands; capped if not in use

Compressed flammable gases
(Hoot hydrocarbons) cannot be stored; must be in ongoing operation
Poisonous and flammable gases
require signs at lab entrance
Maximum of about 8 large
cylinders of flammable gases per lab

6. Acids & Bases

Should be stored separately
Store nitric acid on plastic
away from other acids, bare metals, and wood.

7. Radioactive/Biohazardous
Material

Store in labeled areas

II. Waste Management

Waste containers should be
clearly labeled with:

1) Chemical Category (e.g.
flammable solvents)
2) List of Contents/Date
Name of Research Group and
Telephone Number

Absorption -
1) The penetration of a substance into the body of another
2) The process
of soaking up or taking up hazardous substances to prevent enlargement
of the contaminated area

Action level -
a concentration designated by OSHA for a specific substance, and
calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average, which initiates certain
required activities such as exposure monitoring and medical surveillance

Acute effect -
An adverse effect upon the human body following a short exposure to a
dangerous substance or materials. An acute reaction or illness occurs
immediately after exposure or over a short term (usually less than 24
hours)

Acid - a
corrosive compound with a low pH (6.0 or below), which in the presence
of certain solvents or water, reacts to produce hydrogen ions; turns
litmus paper red; reacts with an alkali (base) to form a salt and water

Aerosols -
suspension of liquid droplets or solid particles in air so small as to
remain dispersed for a period of time

Alkali -
corrosive compounds with a high pH (8.0 or above) which have the
ability to react with an acid to form a salt and water; also referred
to as bases; alkali splashes in the eyes are potentially more damaging
than acid eye splashes; alkalies turn litmus paper blue

Asbestos - a
naturally-occurring mineral used extensively in fireproofing, as an
insulator against heat, cold, noise and electricity and as a
reinforcing agent; defined by the Environmental Protection Agency as
any material containing more than 1 percent asbestos by weight
Asphyxiation -
suffocation from lack of oxygen; simple asphyxiants such as nitrogen
displace oxygen and are harmful to the body when they become so
concentrated that they reduce the normal oxygen concentration in the
air to dnagerou s levels; chemical asphyxiants such as hydrogen cyanide
combine with hemoglobin to reduce or prevent the blood from
transporting oxygen

Autoignition
temperature - the minimum temperature at which a material will
ignite without an lgnltlon
source

Beta
particles - high speed electrons produced from radioactive decay
which have the ability to penetrate skin and clothing

Biocide - any
substance designed to destroy living organisms such as insecticides,
pesticides, and herbicides; when absorbed will cause illness or death
or growth retardation or shortening of life

Biohazard -
biological hazard; infectious agents presenting a risk or potential
risk to the well being of humans or other animals either directly
through infection or indirectly through disruption of the environment

Biological
hazardous wastes - substances of human or animal origin, other
than food wastes, which are to be disposed of and could harbor
pathogenic organisms including, but not limited to, pathological
specimens such as tissues, blo od elements, excreta, secretions and
related substances; includes wastes from health care facilities and
laboratories

BLEVE - Boiling
Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion; explosion believed to result from
rapid depressurization of a hot, saturated liquid; the temperature of
the hot liquid must be above the superheat limit temperature at 1
atmosphere, and the drop in (tank) pressure must be very rapid; this
acronym has now come to stand for virtually any rupture of a tank of
liquid or liquefied compressed gas and has been expanded to include all
vapor explosions

Boiling point - the
temperature at which a liquid changes to vapor state at
a given pressure usually at sea level; materials with low boiling
points are fire and explosion hazards

Breach - any
opening in a hazardous materials container through which hazardous
material can or does escape

Canister -
air-purifying container filled with sorbents and catalysts that remove
gases and vapors from air drawn through the air-purifying unit; the
canister may also contain an aerosol (particulate) filter to remove
solid or liquid parti cles

Carbon
monoxide - chemical asphyxiant; odorless, colorless toxic gas
generated by any process involving the incomplete combustion of
carbon-containing substance and is also a by-product of many chemical
reactions

Carboy - large
glass bottle, up to 15 gallons, in a protective device, usually a
crate; may also be a small plastic drum that ranges from 10 - 15 gallons

Carcinogen -
substance known or suspected of causing cancer; see "Select carcinogen"

Catalyst -
substance which changes the speed of a chemical reaction but undergoes
no permanent change itself

Caustic - A
corrosive chemical with a high pH (basic or alkaline)

Central
Nervous System (CNS) -Body system made up of the brain and spinal
cord.

"C" or
Ceiling -maximum concentration of a chemical, dust, or physical
agent that is allowed at any time under federal standards, not to be
exceeded even momentarily

CAS - Chemical
Abstracts Services; a Columbus, Ohio organization which indexes
information published in "Chemical Abstracts" by the American Chemical
Society and provides index guides by which information about particular
substan ces may be located in the Abstracts when needed; CAS numbers
identify specific chemicals but not every chemical has been assigned a
CAS number

cc - cubic
centimeter; equal in capacity to one milliliter; a volume measurement
in the metric system

Chemical Name -
The correct name that fully defines the chemical composition of a
substance. "silica" and "ethyl cyanoacetate" are chemical names;
"infusorial earth" and "cyanoacrylate adhesive" are generic names, and
"Celite" and "Peavey Print Superglue" are trade names. The generic name
is frequently referred to as the exact description, but it actually
refers to categories such as metals or solvents

Chemical
cartridge - type of absorption unit used with an air- purifying
respirator for removal of vapors and gases; for example organic vapor
cartridges are used for organic vapors such as toluene; acid gas
cartridges are used for hydrogen chloride gas, etc.

Chemical
hygiene officer - an employee who is designated by the employer,
who is qualified by training or experience, to provide technical
guidance in the development and implementation of the provision of the
Chemical Hygiene Plan

Chemical
hygiene plan - a written program developed and implemented by the
employer which sets forth procedures, equipment, personal protective
equipment and work practices that are capable of protecting employees
from the health ha zards presented by hazardous chemicals used in that
particular workplace

CHEMTREC - Chemical Transportation Emergency Center; a national center
established by the Chemical Manufactureres Association (CMA) in
Washington, DC in 1970 to relay pertinent emergency information
concerning specific chemicals on request . CHEMTREC has a 24-hour toll
free telephone number (800) 42s9300 intended primarily for use by those
who respond to chemical transportation emergencies

Chlorates - powerful oxidizers containing chlorine and oxygen

Chromosome
- Part of the cell's genetic material. Damage to chromosomes can cause
harmful changes to an individual's body and may also result in birth
defects

Chronic
Effect - An adverse effect upon the human body which develops from
a long-term or frequent exposure to a harmful substance such as a
carcinogen. Chronic effects or diseases may not show up for years after
exposure

CMA - Chemical Manufacturers Association

Combustion -
process in which fuel is rapidly oxidized; requires fuel,
oxygen, and heat (ignition source) and usually produces heat and light
or other forms of energy

Combustible -
term used by NFPA, DOT, OSHA to classify by Cashpoints
certain liquids that will burn; generally defined as liquids that have
Cashpoints above 100 F. and below 200 F

Combustible
liquid (OSHA) - has a flash point at or above 100 F and below 140
F.; combustible liquids have higher flash points than do flammable
liquids

Combustible
liquid (DOT) - has a flash point 100 F to 200 F

Combustible
gas detector (CGI) - portable, battery-powered field survey
instrument used to detect the presence of combustible gas mixtures by
measuring 0 to 100% of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL)

Dangerous
When Wet - label required for certain shipped materials under DOT,
ICAO, and IMO regulations; such materials may produce flammable gases
when in contact with water or moisture and in some cases these gases
are likely to sp ontaneously combust

DCM - Dangerous Cargo Manifest

Daughter - isotope formed by the decay of a given radioactive isotope; the
daughter may be radioactive or stable

Decontamination - the removal and containment of hazardous materials by
physical and chemical means

Degradation -
the movement of a liquid through chemical protective
clothing resulting in the molecular breakdown of the CPC due to contact
with the liquid; signs of degradation include swelling, weight changes,
and color changes; de gradation charts (excellent, good, fair, poor)
tell how long the clothing will last

Dermatitis -
Inflammation of the skin, such as redness, rash, dry or
cracking skin, blisters, swelling, or pain. May result from exposure to
toxic or abrasive substances

Designated
area - an area which may be used for work with "select
carcinogens", reproductive toxins or substances which have a high
degree of acute toxicity; a designated area may be the entire
laboratory or a device such as a laboratory hood

Dilution -
method of reducing the concentration of a chemical, usually
through the use of water, except when the possibility of a chemical
reaction exists

Disposal
drum - used to refer to overpack drums; proper DOT shipping name
is Salvage drum

DOT - Department of Transportation; regulates transportation of chemicals
and other substances

Ecology - branch of science concerned with the interrelationship of organisms
and their environment

Edema - a swelling of body tissues
due to fluid retention

Emergency - any occurrence such as, but not limited to, equipment failure,
rupture of containers or failure of control equipment which results in
an uncontrolled release of a hazardous chemical into the workplace

Etiologic
agent - microorganisms or their toxins wheich may cause human
disease or contaminate the environment

Evaporation
rate - the rate at which a particular material will evaporate
(vaporize) when compared to the rate of vaporization of a known
material, generally butyl acetate or ethyl ether

Engineering
controls - prevention of worker exposure to contaminants by work
process changes or ventilation, rather than by requiring workers to
wear protective equipment. PESH regulations require that exposure to
airborne contamina nts be addressed wherever possible by engineering
controls rather than by the use of respirators

Exhaust
Ventilation - Removes air contaminants from workplace air by
sucking them away from the breathing zones of workers by means of
hoods, canopies, or ducts. Exhaust ventilation is the most efficient
means of controlling air con taminants because it moves smaller air
volumes with less heat loss (in winter) than general exhaust ventilation

Explosion-proof
equipment - equipment enclosed in solid casing that will not
provide an ignition source in the presence of flammable atmospheres

Explosive,
Class A - any of nine types of explosives as defined by DOT (Title
49 CFR 173.53 and CFR 172.101); any chemical compound, mixture or
device having the primary or common purpose to function by detonation
with substantial i nstantaneous release of gas and heat

Explosive,
Class B - explosives as defined by DOT (Title 49 CFR 172.101 and
CFR 173.88);explosives that function by rapid combustion rather than
detonation; includes special fireworks, flash powders, some pyrotechnic
signaling devic es, and solid or liquid propellant explosives

Explosive,
Class C - certain types of explosives as defined by DOT (Title 49
CFR 172.101 and CFR 173.100) that contain Class A or Class B
explosives, or both, as components, but in restricted quantities, as
well as certain types of fireworks

Explosive
Level - The concentrations of gas in air which can explode. It is
usually expressed as a range between a "lower explosive level" (LEL)
and an "upper explosive level" (UEL). It is commonly measured by an
explosimeter which reads out the concentration of a possibly dangerous
gas in percent per volume

Exposure - When a worker takes in a
toxic substance by breathing,
eating, skin
absorption or other means, he or she is exposed to that substance.
Exposure is measured over time and in amounts (dose).

Film
badge - a pack of photographic film and filters used to determine
radiation exposure

Flammable
gas - a gas that, at ambient temperature and pressure, forms a
flammable mixture with air at a concentration of 13 percent by volume
or less; or a gas that, at ambient temperature and pressure, forms a
range of flammable m ixtures with air wider than 12 percent by volume,
regardless of the lower limit

Flammable
liquid - as defined by OSHA, any liquid with a flash point below
1000F, except

any
mixture having components with flashpoints of 1000F or higher, the
total of which make up 99 percent or more of the total volume of the
mixture

Flammable solid - any solid material, other than one classed as an
explosive, that under normal conditions is liable to cause fire through
friction or retained heat from manufacturing or processing; or can be
ignited readily, and wh en ignited burns so vigorously and persistently
as to create serious storage hazards; defined by DOT in Title 49 CFR
173.150; flammable solids ignite easily and burn with explosive violence

Flanunable
Range - the range of a gas or vapor concentration (percent by
volume) that will burn or explode if an ignition source is present; the
range of concentrations between the lower flammable (explosive) limit
(LFL/LEL) and the upper flammable (explosive) limit (UFL/UEL)

Flash
point - the minimum temperature at which a liquid will give off
enough vapors to form an ignitable mixture with air

Health
Hazard - Any type of job-related noise, dusts, gases, toxic
chemicals, substances, or dangerous working conditions which could
cause an accident, injury, disease or death to workers

Hazardous
chemical - a chemical for which there is statistically significant
evidence based on at least one study conducted in accordance with
established scientific principles that acute or chronic health effects
may occur in expos ed employees; includes chemicals which are
carcinogens, toxic or highly toxic agents, reproductive toxins,
irritants, corrosives, sensitizers, hepatotoxins, nephrotoxins,
neurotoxins, agents which act on the hematopoietic systems, and agents
which damage the lungs, skin, eyes, or mucous membranes

Hazardous
material - any substance or mixture of substances that poses an
unreasonable risk to health, safety or property

Ignition
temperature - minimum temperature of a substance at which
combustion is initiated or self-sustained independent of the heating or
heated element

Incompatible -
materials which could cause dangerous reactions from direct
contact with one another; example: sodium cyanide and hydrochloric acid
react to form the highly toxic hydrogen cyanide gas

IDLH- Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health; represents the maximum
concentration of a substance in air from which, in the event of
respirator failure, one could escape within 30 minutes without
experiencing any escape-impairing or irr eversible health effects

Ignitable -
defined by EPA as having a Cashpoint less than 140 F.; a
solid or liquid waste exhibiting a "characteristic of ignitability" as
defined by RCRA may be regulated by EPA as a hazardous waste

Industrial
Hygiene - The technical specialty concerned with the recognition,
evaluation, and elimination of workplace hazards. Industrial hygienists
study ventilation techniques and other engineering controls, as well as
methods for determining the identity and concentration of chemical,
physical, and radiation hazards

Infectious
waste - waste that contains pathogens or consists of tissues,
organs, body parts, blood and body fluids that are removed during
surgery or other procedures; Title 42 CFR Part 72

Inflammable -
Means the same thing as flammable: a material that can burn
easily

Inflammation -
A condition of the body or portion of the body
characterized by swelling, redness, pain and heat

LC/50- Lethal Concentration/50; the concentration of a material which on the
basis of laboratory tests is expected to kill 50 percent of a test
population of animals when administered as a single exposure

LC/low- Lethal concentration low; the lowest concentration of a substance in
air, other than LC/50, which has been reported to have caused death in
humans or animals

LD/50- Lethal dose/50; a single dose of a material which on the basis of
laboratory tests has been shown to kill 50 percent of a test population
of animals; usually expressed as milligrmas or grams of material per
kilogram of animal body weight

LD/low- Lethal dose low; the lowest dose of a substance introduced by any
route except inhalation, reported to have caused death in humans or
animals

Label
(DOI) - diamond-shaped, square-shaped, or rectangular-shaped attachment
to a package that identifies the hazardous nature of the material
(Title 49 CFR Part 172, Subpart E)

Laboratory -
a generic term denoting a building, space, equipment to
operations wherein testing, research or experimental work is conducted
and shall include laboratories used for instructional purposes; a
facility where relatively small quantities of hazardous chemicals are
used on a nonproductive basis

Laboratory
building - a structure consisting wholly or principally of one or
more laboratory units

Laboratory
scale - work with substances in which the containers used for
reactions, transfers, adn other handling of substances are designed to
be easily and safely manipulated by one person

Laboratory
unit - an enclosed, fire-rated space used for testing, research,
experimental or educational purposes; laboratory units may or may not
include offices, lavatories, and other contiguous rooms maintained for
or used by, lab oratory personnel, and corridors within the units and
may contain one or more separate laboratory work areas

Laboratory
work area - a room or place within a laboratory unit for testing,
analysis, research, instruction or similar activities which involve the
use of chemicals or gases and may or may not be enclosed

Latent
period - the time which elapses between exposure and the first
sign or manifestation of damage

LEL or LFL - Lower Explosive Limit or Lower Flammable Limit; the minimum
concentration of a gas or vapor in air that will produce a flash of
fire when an ignition source is present; at concentrations below the
LEL, the mixture is too lean to burn

Local
Effect - Means that the action of the chemical takes place at the
point of contact, such as dermatitis caused by skin contact with
solvents. (Compare with systemic effect)

Melting
point - the temperature at which a solid substance changes to a
liquid state; for mixtures, the melting range may be given

Mg/M3- Milligrams per cubic meter of air. A unit for measuring the amount of
a chemical or substance in the air. 1000mg equals one gram

Microorganism - a living organism not discretely visible to the
unaided
eye; example: bacteria, fungi

Mitigate -
to lessen or reduce the adverse effects of a hazardous
materials incident

Mist- Airborne liquid droplets that are created by a gas going into the
liquid state or by a liquid being splashed, foaming or atomized.
Examples: oil mist from cutting, grinding, or from pressure; paint
mists from spraying

ml - milliliter, a metric unit of capacity, equal in volume to one cubic
centimeter or about 1/16 of a cubic inch

mm- millimeter, a metric unit of length, equal to 1/1000 of a meter or
about 1/25 of an inch

SDS
- Material Safety Data Sheet; a chemical fact sheet required by OSHA to
be generated by the manufacturer and shipped downstream to all
employer/users of hazardous products; contains information on the
specific identity of hazardous in gredients, health effects, first aid,
chemical and physical properties, spill response, personal protective
equipment, etc.

Mucous
Membrane - The moist, soft covering of the nose, mouth, and lining
of eyes

Mutagen -
substance capable of causing genetic damage

Mutation -
A change (usually harmful) in the genetic material of a
cell. When it occurs in the sperm or egg, the mutation can be passed on
to future generations

NA
number - North American identification number; NA preceding a
four-digit number indicates that this identification number is used in
the United States and Canada to identify a hazardous material in
transportation

Narcosis -
destruction of body tissue

Neutralization - the process by which acid or alkaline properties of a
solutions are altered by the addition of certain reagents to bring the
pH to 7, the value of pure water; sodium bicarbonate is commonly used
to neutralize acid s pills

Neutralize
- to make harmless anything contaminated with a chemical agent

NFPA- National Fire Protection Association, an international voluntary
membership organization to promote and improve fire protection and
prevention and establish safeguards against the loss of life and
property by fire; best known for th e National Fire Codes (16 volumes)

NFPA
Hazard Classification - the numerical designations of
relative accident potential at fixed sites based on probable outcomes
should an accident occur

NIOSH- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the US
Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS); federal agency which
conducts occupational health and safety research, tests and certifies
respiratory equipment and ai r sampling detector tubes, recommends
occupational exposure limits and assists OSHA and MSHA in safety and
health investigations

Nitrates -
compounds conteuning oxygen and nitrogen, many of which are
potent oxidizers; react with paper and wood products to form
combustible compounds; example: nitric acid reacts with wood to form
nitrocellulose

Nonflammable
gas - any material or mixture in a cylinder or tank having an
absolute pressure

exceeding
40 psi at 700F, or exceeding 104 psi at 1300F (Title 49 CFR and CGA);
nonflammable gases will not form a flammable mixture in air but may
support combustion

NPIN- National Pesticides Telecommunications Network; a national pesticide
poison control center restricted to use by health professionals;
assists in diagnosing and managing pesticide poisoning 24 hours a day

Nuisance
dust - generally non-toxic dust but may be irritating at high
concentrations

Organic
peroxide - very reactive and unstable organic compounds containing
the -O-O (oxygen) structure and which may be considered to be a
structural derivation of hydrogen peroxide where one or both of the
hydrogen atoms has been r eplaced by an organic radical; organic
peroxides heated above their transportation temperatures are likely to
explode

ORM(A-E) - Other Regulated Materials as defined by DOT

OSHA- Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the US Department of
Labor; federal agency which regulates and enforces safety and health
for most US industries and businesses and public employers in those
states with state-approve d OSHA plans

Overpack -
an enclosure used to provide protection or convenience in
handling a package or to consolidate two or more packages

Oxidizer -
a chemical other than a blasting agent or explosive that
initiates or promotes combustion in other materials, causing fire of
itself or through the release of oxygen or other gases

Oxidizing
agent - a chemical which brings about an oxidation reaction; the
agent may provide the oxygen to the substance being oxidized or it may
receive electrons being transferred from the substance undergoing
oxidation; example: chlorine contains no oxygen but is a very good
oxidizing agent for electron-transfers

PEL
- Permissible exposure level; the numerical level of a chemical or
substance above which a worker cannot legally be exposed. Example: the
PEL for lead exposure is 50 ug/m3 for a forty-hour week.

Penetration -
refers to the bulk movement of a liquid through personal
protective equipment openings such as zippers, seams, pinholes, etc.

Permeation -
the movement of a substance on the molecular level; the
process by which a chemical dissolves into the CPC material and
evaporates on the other side; permeation data reveals how safe chemical
protective clothing is to w ear while degradation data reveals how long
the clothing will hold up

Physical
hazard - a chemical for which there is scientifically valid
evidence that it is a combustible liquid, a compressed gas, explosive,
flammable, an organic peroxide, an oxidizer, pyrophoric, unstable
(reactive) or water-reacti ve

Placard -
a DOT-regulated sign that identifies hazardous materials on
large containers such as tanker trucks and railroad tank cars

PPE/Personal
Protective Equipment - Devices worn by workers to protect them
against work-related hazards such as air contaminants, falling
materials, and noise. While it is important to wear such equipment when
required, it should b e remembered that these devices usually only
provide minimal protection to workers and should only have to be worn
when all other efforts have been initiated to correct an unsafe working
environment. Examples of personal protective equipment include hard
hats, ear plugs, respirators and steel-toe work shoes

Pneumonitis -
inflammation of the lungs characterized by an outpouring of
fluid in the lungs; pneumonia is the same condition but involves
greater quantities of fluid

PPM
- Abbreviation for parts per million; the ratio of the amount of a
substance to the amount of air. one part benzene vapor per million
parts of air is 1 ppm

Poison
Class A - poisonous gases or liquids of such a nature that a very small
amount mixed with air is dangerous to life (Title 49 CFR 173.326)
Examples: phosgene, nitrogen peroxide; shipping containers for poisons
do not have pressure re lief devices and may BLEVE under fire conditions

Poison
Class B - a DOT term for substances (other than Class A poisons) which
are so toxic as to present a health hazard during transportation (Title
49 CFR 173.343)

Poison
Control Centers - nationwide network of poison control centers set
up by the Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Health and
Human Services; usually established in local hospitals

Polymerization - a chemical reaction in which one or more small
molecules
combine to form larger molecules; hazardous polymerizations are ones
which take place at such a rate that large amounts of energy are
released

psi- pounds per square inch; a unit measuring the pressure a material
exerts on the walls of a confining vessel or enclosure

Pyrophoric -
a chemical that will ignite spontaneously in air at a
temperature of 130 F. or less

rad- a unit for the measurement of radioactivity; one rad is the amount of
radiation that results in the absorption of 100 ergs of energy by 1
gram of material

Radioactive -
any type of substance that liberates radioactive particles
or energy due to unstable atoms that have disintegrating nuclei

RAM- radioactive material; may be subject to the licensing requirements of
Title 10 CFR

RCRA- Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, a federal law administered by
the EPA regulating disposal of all wastes; manages hazardous wastes
through a "cradle to grave" tracing system by controlling their
generation, treating , storage, transportation and disposal

Reaction- a chemical transformation or change; the interaction of two or more
substances to form new substances

Reactivity -
tendency of a substance to undergo a chemical reaction with
the release of energy; also a RCRA classification for hazardous waste
triggering regulation

Reducing
agent - the substance that combines with oxygen or loses electrons
in an oxidation-reduction reaction

rem- a measure of radiation dose meaning roentgen equivalent man;
calculated by multiplying the dose in rads by the relative biological
effectiveness of the radiation considered

Reportable
quantity - substances in quanitities listed by DOT or EPA that
must be reported; specified by DOT in Title 49 CFR 172.101 or by EPA in
Title 40 CFR 173

Residue -
defined by DOT as the hazardous material remaining in a
packaging after its contents have been emptied and before the packaging
is refilled, or cleaned and purged of vapor to remove any potential
hazard (Title 49 CFR 171.8 ); empty poison containers are very
dangerous due to remaining residue

Risk -
the probability that damage to life, property and/or the
environment will occur if a hazard manifests itself

Salvage
drum - drum with a removable metal head used to transport damaged
or leaking hazardous materials for repackaging or disposal

SARA- Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986

SCBA- self-contained breathing apparatus

Select
carcinogen - any substance which meets one of the following
criteria: 1) it is regulated by OSHA as a carcinogen; or 2) it is
listed under the category "Known to be carcinogens" in the Annual
Report on Carcinogens p ublished by the National Toxicology Program
(NTP); or 3) it is listed under GROUP l ("Carcinogenic to humans") by
the International Agency for Research (IARC) Cancer Monographs; or 4)
it is listed in either GROUP 2A OR 2B by IARC or under the ca tegory
"Reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens" by NTP, and causes
statistically significant tumor incidence in experimental animals in
accordance with any of the following criteria: a) after inhalation
exposure of 6-7 hours per day, 5 days pe r week, for a

significant
portion of a lifetime to dosages of less than 10 mg/M3; b) after
repeated skin application of less than 300 mg/kg of body weight per
week; or c) after oral dosages of less than 50 mg/kg of body weight per
day

Sensitizer- A substance that causes an individual to react when subsequently
exposed to the same or other irritant, as in a skin reaction or allergy.

Short-Term
Exposure Limit (STEL) - A standard for the permissible
occupational exposure limit for a brief (not over 15 minutes) period.
Usually only four short exposures a day are permitted, each at least 60
minutes apart.

"SKIN"
- a notation sometimes used with the PEL or TLV to indicate a substance
readily absorbed through the skin; this additional exposure must be
considerd part of the total exposure to avoid exceeding the PEL or TLV

Smoke- an air suspension (aerosol) of particulates, often originating from
combustion or sublimation

SOP- Standard Operating procedures

Solubility
in water - term expressing the percentage of a material by weight
that will dissolve in water at ambient temperature

Solution- mixture of one or more substances in another substance, usually a
liquid in which all the ingredients are dissolved

Solvent- A substance (usually a liquid) capable of dissolving another.

Stability -
ability of a material to remain unchanged; a material is
stable if it remains in the same form under expected and reasonable
conditions of storage and use

Storage
room - a room where chemicals or gases regulated by the New York City
Fire Department 1-66 Laboratory regulation are stored and not otherwise
used or reacted

Storage
cabinet - a cabinet for the storage of not more than 60 gallons of
flammable liquid which is designed and constructed in accordance with
the OSHA General Industry Standards

Superfund -
the trust fund set up under CERCLA to provide money for
hazardous waste cleanups

Synergistic- Two or more agents that act together to produce a total effect
greater than the sum of the separate effects.

Systemic
Effect - A chemical's effect on the body that takes place
somewhere other than point of contact. For example, some pesticides are
absorbed through the skin (point of contact), but affect the nervous
system (site of action).

Teratogen- Substances or agents that cause birth defects or other abnormalities
in offspring, when exposure occurs during pregnancy.

Threshold- the level where the first health effects occur; also the point at
which a person just begins to hear that a sound becoming audible

Threshold
Limit Value (TLV) -The recommended limit (by ACGIH) allowed for
worker exposure to toxic chemicals, substances, and airborne
contaminants. It is believed that a worker can be repeatedly exposed to
the TLV without adverse e ffects.

Time
Weighted Average (TWA) An OSHA standard based on exposure over
eight hours, using time-integrated sampling.

Toxic- Poisonous; capable of causing any sort of injury to the body. This
includes noise, radiation, heat, cold, along with chemical and mineral
substances.

Trade
Name - Any arbitrary name a company chooses to use for a chemical
or product for advertising reasons or in order to keep secret the
ingredients. wFormacil" or WMethotrexate" are trade names. See generic
names and che mical names.

TSCA- Toxic Substances Control Act (1976)

TSDF- Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facility

Title m - the federal
Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act; mandates emergency
response planning at the State and Local levels through State Emergency
Planning Commissions (SERCs) and L ocal Emergency Planning Committees
(LEPCs); mandates automatic reporting of extremely hazardous substances
at fixed facilities as well as reporting of toxic releases; provides
for citizen access to all the above information

UEL
or UFL - upper explosive or flammable limit; the maximum
concentration of a vapor or gas in air that sustain a flame when an
ignition source is present; mixtures above the UEL/UFL are too rich to
burn

Vapor- the gaseous form of a substance that normally is a liquid or solid;
examples: water vapor, vapors of organic solvents such as toluene
vapors; please note it is incorrect to say "paint fumes" as the correct
term is paint v apors

Vapor
density - the weight of a vapor or gas compared to the weight of
an equal volume of air; materials with vapor densities less than l.0
are lighter than air and materials with vapor densities greater than
l.0 are heavier than ai r

Vapor
pressure - the pressure exerted by a saturated vapor above its own
liquid in a closed container; the higher the vapor pressure (reported
in millimeters of mercury on an SDS), the more readily a substance
evaporates; the lower the boiling point of a substance, the higher its
vapor pressure

Ventilation -
A duct and fan system that takes contaminants (fumes or
dust) in the air out of the work area, thereby reducing worker's
exposure. The most effective type of ventilation is local exhaust
ventilation, placed close to th e source of airborne fumes or dust and
drawing it away from the worker

Volatile - Tendency for a liquid to evaporate or vaporize rapidly.

Water-reactive
materials - any substance that readily reacts with or decomposes
in the presence of water with substantial release of energy; examples:
sodium metal, magnesium metal

Three
laboratory accidents recently occurred on campus within a two week
period.
All three accidents had serious or potentially serious outcomes
which might have been avoided if standard operating procedures (SOPs)
and emergency resp onse procedures had been in effect.
A
chemistry graduate student was inspecting a sealed, evacuated pyrex
tube he had just prepared when it imploded without warning, apparently
due to an imperfection in the glass.
Fragments of the tube went
underneat h his goggles (Norton 180) and severely cut his right cornea.
Although the injury was very severe and three glass shards are
permanently embedded in his cornea, it could have been much worse.

A
few more millimeters of penetration would have meant los s of his right
eye. The Norton 180 goggles did not provide adequate protection for
this type of procedure.
Evacuated glass tubes and apparatus should be
regarded as hazardous at all times, not just during use. Always wear
eye protection whe n working near a vacuum line. use a full face shield
or goggles that protect the eyes from below as well as from the side.
The
second incident occurred at 7:00 pm in the evening while two students
were cleaning up a laboratory. During the clean-up, a bottle of
ethylamine was accidentally broken and ethylamine splashed onto the
arms of one of th e students.
Because the student was not aware of the
safety shower, the ethylamine was not immediately
washed off, resulting in chemical burns.The
third accident also occurred in the evening and involved an explosion
in a hood. Fortunately, no lab work was being done nor was anyone in
the room at the time of the explosion. Although the exact cause of the
explosion could not be determined, it is believed that someone
mistakenly poured waste acid into a methylene chloride bottle.

This
mixture can result in a violent reaction and possible explosion. Glass
fragments were spewn throughout the area, one with en ough force to
completely cut through a plastic hose attached to a water source.These
three accidents all underline the need for written standard operating
procedures for each phase of laboratory work.

For example, written SOPs
for chemical handling, storage and disposal should have been in effect.
Such writt en SOPs should also specify the proper protective equipment
to be used. Everyone in the lab should be thoroughly familiar with
all of these procedures.

If
your laboratory would like assistance in developing standard operating
procedures, waste disposal procedures and emergency response actions,
please contact the Environmental Health and Safety Office at X-48749.
We are here to assist you.

Particularly
hazardous substances include reproductive toxins, allergens,
acutely toxic and chronically toxic chemicals.Toxic
effects are produced by a chemical if it reaches an appropriate
site in the body at a concentration and for a length of time
sufficient to produce a toxic response.

The effects of toxic substances
may appear immediately or soon after exposure (acute toxicity)
or they may take many years to appear (chronic toxicity).ACUTELY
TOXIC SUBSTANCES Acute effects are due to a single exposure
or a few exposures usually occurring within the same 24-hour period.
Acute health effects range from complete recovery, recovery
with some damage, or death. Highly acute t oxic chemicals include
hydrogen sulfide and hydrogen cyanide.CHRONICALLY
TOXIC SUBSTANCES Chronic effects are due to repeated exposures
to low doses of toxic substances usually over a long period
of time.

Chronic illnesses can occur either from a build-up of
the chemical in the body or from an accum ulation of the damage.
Examples of chronically toxic substances are the heavy metals
such as mercury (central nervous system impairment), and organic
solvents such as n-hexane (peripheral neuropathy).

Chronically
toxic substances also include carcinogens. The University laboratory
policy mandates special handling procedures for select carcinogens.
A select carcinogen is any substance which meets one of the
following cnteria:

1) it is regulated by OSHA as a carcinogen;
or
2)it is listed under the category "Known to be
carcinogens" in the Annual Report on Carcinogens published by the
National Toxicology Program (NTP); or
3) it is listed under Group 1
("Carcinogenic to humans") by the International Agency for Research
(IARC) Cancer Monogr aphs; or
4) it is listed in either GROUP 2A or 2B
by IARC or under the category "Reasonably anticipated to be
carcinogens" by NTP, and causes statistically significant tumor
incidence in experimental animals in accordance with any of the
followi ng criteria:

a) after inhalation exposure of 6-7 hours
per day, 5 days per week, for a significant portion
of a lifetime to dosages of less than 10 mg/M3;)
b) after
repeated skin application of less than 300 mg/kg of body weight
per week; or
c) after oral dosages of less than 50 mg/kg of body
weight per day.

ALLERGENS Chemical allergy is an adverse, antibody
mediated reaction resulting from a prior sensitization to a chemical.
As with environmental allergens such as pollen and animal dander,
not everyone's immune system will become sensitized
to any particular chemical.

For those that do develop a chemical
allergy, sensitization usually evolves over a 10 - 21 day period,
after which even a low dose exposure to the chemical results in
an allergic reaction.
The reaction itself usually becomes apparent
12 - 48 hours after exposure, and can range in severity from minor
skin disturban ces such as inflammation, itching, and redness,
to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Although any compound possesses
the potential to elicit an allergic response in some subpopulation
of workers, there are some chemicals that induce allergy more
commonly than others. Some common allergens include toluene diisocyanate,
bery llium, methylmethacrylate, formaldehyde, dinitrochlorobenzene,
and powdered vinyl and latex gloves.

REPRODUCTIVE TOXINS

Reproductive
toxins are any compounds that interfere with the normal male
or female reproductive processes. Reproductive toxins include
mutagens and teratogens.
Mutagens change a gene in the sperm
or egg cell of the par ent. The parent is not directly affected
but the offspring is. Teratogens cause damage to the growing embryo
or fetus, even when present in small amounts, and cause severe
birth defects.

1. Check the label, Safety Data Sheet and attached
list at the end of this appendix to see if a chemical
is considered acutely toxic, chronically toxic, a reproductive
toxin or an allergen. If so, the followin g apply:
2.
Work in a clearly designated area. Identify the area
(such as fume hoods, glove boxes, lab bench tops, and refrigerators)
with proper warning signs. If possible, demarcate the
area .For example, specific areas of a laboratory bench can
be demarcated with yellow tape and labeled "suspect carcinogen.".
3.
Work surfaces in the designated area should
be covered with stainless steel or plastic trays, dry absorbent
plastic-backed paper or other impervious material. Decontaminate
or dispose of these protective surfaces after any procedure inv
olving high hazard chemicals has been completed.
4.
Primary containment must be used for any
volatile high-hazard chemicals or for any procedure that results
in the generation of aerosols. Primary containment devices include
chemical fume hoods, glove boxes or other suitable containment.
5. Vapors or aerosols produced by analytical instruments
should be captured through local exhaust ventilation
at the site of their production or be vented into a chemical fume
hood or other suitable containment. Overtly contaminated analyt
ical equipment should be promptly decontaminated
.6.
Appropriate personal protective equipment
(eyewear, gloves, etc.) should be specified by the Principal Investigator
in conduction with the EHS office. As a minimum,
lab coats must be worn to protect street clothing. Such lab coats
must never be worn outside the laboratory. In the event of contamination,
remove the protective clothing immediately and dispose
of or decontaminate it.
7. Vacuum lines including water apirators
should be protected (e.g., with an absorbent or liquid trap and
a HEPA filter) to prevent entry of any high-hazard chemical into
the system. When using volatile chemicals, a separate vacuum pump
sh ould be used. This device should be placed within
or vented into an appropriate laboratory-type hood.
8. Stock quantities
of high-hazard chemicals must be stored in a clearly
designated and labeled storage area or cabinet. Maintain a listing
of the stock quantities and include the dates of acquisition. Keep
working quantities to a minimum. Working quantities should not
normally exceed the amounts required for use in 1 week.
9. Transport
high-hazard chemicals in labeled, durable outer containers.
10.
All hazardous waste containers must be clearly labeled with the
chemical category (flammable, reactive, corrosive, toxic ), list
of contents, and the name and telephone number of the generating
research group. High-hazard chemicals and relative percentages
should be clearly designated.
11.
Any spill or accidental release of any
high-hazard chemical, regardless of the amount, should be immediately
reported to Security (x99) who will then coordinate spill response
with the EHS office. Evacuate the area until the hazardous release
has been characterized and controlled.
12. Laboratory
personnel of childbearing age should be informed of any known male
or female reproductive toxins in the laboratory. Any pregnant employee
or any employee planning to conceive and working
with reproductive toxins should conta ct the EHS office. The EHS
office can assess employee exposure, inform or consult the employee's
physician, and determine whether work practices or controls may
have to be instituted to minimize risk.
13. If hood or equipment
failure occurs, close the hood sash and evacuate the area. Obtain
help immediately by following the notification procedures. Do not
attempt to initiate an emergency response.

Electrical
hazards can result in shock to personnel, ignition of combustible or
explosive materials, electrical explosions, and inadvertent activation
of equipment.

The
effects of electrical shock depend on the amount of current (amperage)
pasing through the body, the current path and the frequency and
duration of the flow. Resistance (measured in ohms) determines amperage
so low voltage can be just as dangerous as high voltage. The
resistance of the human body to current flow is contained almost
entirely in the skin, particularly the dead, scaly cells of the outer
layer.
Different parts of the body differ in their resistance to
current flow. wet moist skin is much less resistant to electron flow
than dry skin.

100 ohms The
three levels of electrical shock are mild, severe and deadly. Mild
shock is caused by brief contact with current less than 5 milliamperes
(mA). Severe shock is caused by longer contact with current from 5 to
25 milliamperes (mA).

Deadl y shock occurs when a person is frozen to
an electrical contact and receives continuous current greater than
25 milliamperes (mA).

1. Use properly grounded equipment. If an electrical device
is grounded, its cord will have a three-prong plug and require
a three way receptacle to accomodate it. Equipment need not
be grounded if it is double-insulat ed; this is usually indicated
by a label.
2.
Use double-insulated tools.
3.
Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) which break the current
whenever low levels of current leaking to ground are detected wherever
there is a possibility of liquid/electrical contact.
4.
To minimize static electricity and sparks in hazardous areas and
in handling flammable solvents and other chemicals, containers
and equipment should be properly grounded and bonded, and blanketed
with inert gas when needed.
5.
If power cannot be shut down when someone is receiving continuous
shock, try to free the victim from the power source. Use a
non-conductive object such as wood, plastic or rope to move the
victim away from the power source. Do not touch the victim directly
or you may become part of the "circuit."
6.
Inspect electrical equipment before use. Look for broken or bent
plugs, frayed cords, bare wires, smoke, sparks from switches or
controls, liquids spilled in or on equipment, or erratic operation.
If you notice any of these defects, or suspect any problems at
all, do not use the equipment. Tag the equipment and have it repaired
by authorized personnel. Only qualified, trained persons should
maintain electrical equipment.
7.
Electrical failure and overheating equipment should be reported
to your immediate supervisor or the EHS office.

CRYOGENIC
HAZARDS AND COLD TRAPS

Cryogens
are gases that must be cooled to less than -150 F before they can be
liquiefied. All cryogens require special handling because they have a
very high liquid to vapor expansion, the ability to liquefy other gases
and the potential t o damage living tissue. Cryogens and the surfaces
they cool can cause severe burns upon skin contact.

1. Gloves and a face shield may be needed when preparing or
using some cold baths.
2
Immerse the object to be cooled slowly to avoid vigorous boiling and
overflow of the coolant.
3.
Use properly vented containers. Dewar flasks should be made of
borosilicate glass and wrapped with friction tape or a metal casing to
contain flying pieces upon implosion. Do not pour cold liquid onto the
edge of a Dewar flask as the fl ask may break and implode (e.g., do not
pour liquid nitrogen out of a Dewar flask).
4.
Do not use liquid nitrogen or liquid air to cool a flammable mixture in
the presence of air because oxygen can condense from the air, leading
to an explosion hazard.
5.
Cold traps used in vacuum systems should be wrapped with friction tape
to contain flying pieces in the event of an implosion.

1.
Compressed gas cylinders shall always be secured in an upright position
with chains, straps or special stands.
2.
Compressed gas cylinders must be hydrostatically tested by the
manufacturer every ten years. The date of the latest test (month,
year) is stamped into the metal of the cylinder. Cylinders with expired
test dates must be returned to the manufacturer.
3.
Use a cart to move cylinders and always move cylinders with the
protective cap and restraining chain in place.
4.
Only use cylinders that can be positively identified.
5.
Do not open a cylinder until the correct regulator is in place.
6.
After a new cylinder is hooked up and any other time the regulator
or conducting tubing is disturbed or manipulated, the potential leak
points in the system shall be leaked tested using soap solution.
7.
Do not tamper, modify, force or lubricate any cylinder valve.
8.
Do not use an oxygen regulator for any other gas or vice versa. Do
not interchange combustible gas regulators with those for oil-free
inert gases.
9.
Modification, alteration and repair of all regulators shall be done
by the manufacturers. Never attempt to modify a gas cylinder regulator
to make it fit a particular cylinder.
10.
Do not empty compressed gas cylinders completely to avoid possible
formation of explosive air/gas mixtures.
11.
Clearly label empty cylinders as such (either EMPTY or MT).
12.
Store empty cylinders separately from full cylinders.
13.
Flammable gas use: storage and use of flammable gase within the
laboratory unit must be in accordance with the New York City Fire
Department laboratory regulation 1-66, which allows a maximum capacity
of 15.4 cubic feet per laboratory. Flammable gases may only be stored
in laboratory units where there is an on-going operation requiring
their use. Such operations shall allow for storage of flammable gases
sufficient to meet the operating requirements of the equipment in
that laboratory plus an equal reserve.

A FLAMMABLE GAS sign must
be posted at the entrance of the laboratory.

PRESSURE
HAZARDS

Shield
high-pressure operations or operations under vacuum with a blast shield
and always wear protective safety goggles. Closed
systems in which reactions are carried out or to which heat is applied
must be designed and tested to withstand pressure. Pressurized
apparatus must have appropriate relief devices. If the reaction cannot
be opened directly to the a ir, an inert gas purge and bubbler system
should be used to avoid pressure build-up.

LASER
HAZARDS
1.
Personnel should use light-tight interlocked enclosures to enclose the
laser beam.
2.
Wear laser safety eyewear whenever working in any laboratory where a
laser is in operation.
3.
Before turning on any laser close the door to the laboratory and post
the following sign on the door.
CAUTION:
LASER IN OPERATION
DO
NOT ENTER
The
letters must be 3 inches in height and in red. 4.
On the door of every laboratory occupied by any laser and inside the
laboratory the following symbol must be posted. The symbol must be in
red and the background must be yellow or white. The letters must be-in
black and one inch in heig ht.
5.
Never look directly into any laser beam. Lasers are highly intense
focused forms of energy and can permanently damage the eye upon
impingement.
6.Never
expose any part of your body to any laser beam. Besides being
potentially hazardous to the eye lasers can also damage the skin
severely.
7.
Equipment in the laboratory should consist of non-reflecting surfaces.
This will prevent exposure to indirect beams.
8.
General illumination in laser radiation areas shall be at least 30
lumens per square foot, except where conditions of laser operation
require lower ambient illumination.
9.
If only part of the laser beam is to be used, terminate the unused
portion with a non-reflecting material.
10.
Anybody who operates a laser must be aware of the potential hazards of
laser . beams. Therefore all expected users must undergo training.
11.
For appropriate signs, eyewear, enclosures and training contact the
Environmental Health and Safety Office at x) 48749.
12.
All electrical equipment and wiring in any laboratory occupied by a
laser must be under routine check for hazardous conditions. All
electrical equipment must be grounded.
13.
Flammable solvents ( those with flash points less than 100F ) must be
stored in premises that fully comply with the New York City Fire
Department Directive 1-66.
14.
Lasers should be placed horizontally at approximately 4 feet above the
ground.
15.
Lasers should not be moved from one laboratory to another.
16.
Only equipment and minimum amounts of material needed for operating the
laser should be
present in the laser laboratory